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Figuring out whether to go with the Jitsi desktop app or the Jitsi meet online web client can be a bit of a puzzle. This is especially true if you’re a newbie developer, a business owner, or an agency looking to dive into video conferencing tools. Both options pack a punch with their robust, open-source video meeting capabilities but do so with a twist. They differ in features, performance, and overall vibe.
Let’s break things down: when to lean towards the Jitsi desktop app versus the web client, based on hands-on experience and what’s standard in the industry. We’ll weigh in on practical scenarios to leave you with a clear-headed choice.
The Jitsi desktop app is essentially a piece of software you download and run on your Windows, macOS, or Linux. It operates independently from your browser and here’s what it brings to the table:
Performance and Stability: As a native app, it manages resources more nimbly. This translates to a smoother video and audio experience—fewer hiccups and less lag. Folks dealing with browser limitations or heavy computing tasks often favor this one.
Advanced Audio/Video Controls: Features like noise suppression and echo cancellation, plus hardware acceleration, tend to perform better than the browser versions.
Screen Sharing & Multiple Monitor Support: Share specific app windows or entire screens. If you have a multi-monitor setup, this app’s flexibility shines as you move it around and share accordingly.
Offline Access to Some Features: Although meetings require an internet connection, local settings, contacts, and integrations are managed separately. This means some controls stay operational even when your browser’s overloaded.
Integration with Operating System: It utilizes native notifications, keyboard shortcuts, and mic/camera settings more efficiently.
Security Controls: Desktops lean on OS-level security features, providing a tad more safety beyond what browser sandboxes offer.
Customization & Plugins: Certain versions let advanced users and businesses add plugins or even custom branding—handy for those in the white-label game.
In one project with multiple clients, participants using the desktop app saw 20% fewer disconnections than those on browsers. Critical for meetings with shaky internet, this highlights the desktop client’s resilience.
The Jitsi meet online web version is a breeze—accessible straight from any modern browser with no setup drama. It’s perfect for those impromptu, on-the-go meetings or users wanting a hassle-free experience:
Instant Access: Kick-off or join meetings by just heading to a URL. No app stores or admin rights required. Ideal for quick calls or clients unsure about software installation.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Works across Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and anything with a modern browser.
No Updates Needed: Security patches and updates roll out via the web server, ensuring users are always on the latest version.
Screen Sharing: Share your entire screen or just specific browser tabs. However, sometimes browser permissions might throw a wrench in the works.
Chat and Moderation: Group chat, password-protected rooms, lobby modes, and host controls like muting, kicking, or locking rooms are all possible.
Integration Friendly: Many sites embed it using iframes or API calls, making it a go-to for agencies selling white-label solutions.
Security: Modern browsers support security protocols including WebRTC encryption, although certain vulnerabilities depend on browser security models.
A local business owner ran team check-ins and sales calls solely through the web client. The lack of installation hassle got everyone on board swiftly. But, occasional browser crashes needed a page refresh, underscoring some browser-dependent limitations.
| Feature | Jitsi Desktop | Jitsi Meet Online |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Needs download and installation | Straight from a browser, no setup |
| Performance | Rock solid, less dependent on browser | Relies heavily on browser and extensions |
| Features | Packed with advanced controls | Comprehensive but some limits in the browser |
| Platform Support | Native for Windows, Mac, Linux | Any recent browser/device |
| Updates | Manual/auto via installer | Seamless via server-side |
| Security | Uses OS-level controls | WebRTC encrypted, browser-centric security |
| Customization Options | Custom plugins and UI possible | Limited to API/embed tweaks |
| **Integration & White-label | Good for deep integrations and branding | Simple embed, limited deep customization |
New Developers Exploring Jitsi:
The web client is great for testing and early exploration. You can whip up meetings without any setup, play with APIs, and embed quick demos in web projects. Once you’re comfortable, transitioning to the desktop for more advanced uses is the move.
Business Owners Trying to Understand It:
Businesses that need straightforward team huddles or client calls will appreciate the web client’s simplicity. Though for heavy-duty use with bigger teams and consistent audio/video quality, the desktop app’s steadfastness is worth its weight in gold.
Agencies Reselling White-label Video Tools:
Agencies can switch it up based on client demands. For enterprises wanting more control, the desktop app’s customization and performance perks win out. Meanwhile, for smaller businesses or event sites, embedding the web client for quick deployment fits the bill.
An agency working with remote teams built a custom Jitsi desktop version with their brand and tied it into their internal systems. It boosted user confidence and simplified global onboarding. Yet, their SME clients leaned towards the web-based Jitsi meet online for easy access, catering to varied client needs.
Choose Jitsi Desktop if you:
Choose Jitsi Meet Online if you:
For Developers & Agencies:
Begin with the web client for prototypes or demos. Gather input on both performance and features in use. If a higher caliber or customization is needed, transition steadily to desktop app integration. A mixed approach allows user choice based on their workflow.
Security Considerations:
Be diligent about using passwords, room locks, lobby modes, and embracing end-to-end encryption. Keep a tab on software updates and versions regularly.
Both Jitsi desktop and Jitsi meet online shine in their own right. The desktop app excels in steadiness, performance, and deeper OS integration, making it a go-to for power users, business honchos, and agencies after consistency. Its web counterpart stands out with straightforward access, device adaptability, and embedding finesse, ideal for newcomers and laidback catchups.
Your pick hinges on balancing ease, control, and tech needs. Use the web client for a quick start, moving to the desktop app as your crew or clientele expand.
Keen to streamline your video work with Jitsi?
Give Jitsi meet online a whirl for quick access. If you’re after more firepower and custom tweaks, dive into the Jitsi desktop client. Agencies—do ponder white-labeling both to cater to varied clientele scenarios.
Reach out if you need guidance on integrating or customizing Jitsi for your venture or product. Let’s craft a video solution fit just for you.
Jitsi desktop is a standalone application offering richer features and performance, while Jitsi meet online runs in a browser and requires no installation.
Both use end-to-end encryption where possible, but the desktop app may have enhanced security controls and fewer browser-related vulnerabilities.
Yes, Jitsi meet online works directly from your browser with no installation needed, making it quick to access and use.
The Jitsi desktop app provides better performance, stability, and feature access, making it suitable for frequent or professional use.
Yes, agencies can white-label and integrate both Jitsi desktop and web clients depending on their target user needs and deployment preferences.
From setup to scaling, our Jitsi experts are here to help.